No Such Thing as a Cautious Creative

George Lois, the legendary ad man, once said:

‘You can be cautious or you can be creative but there is no such things as a cautious creative.’

In an interview with Vice, he added ‘if you’re a cautious creative you’re a bum.’

Lois’ advice may sound like an invitation to beat yourself up. But he isn’t talking about you; he’s talking about the work and the intention you bring to it. On your next project, check in on your motives:

Am I doing what’s best for the work, or what I think will make others happy?

Am I confronting fear, or am I hiding?

Do I feel stifled or free?

When was the last time I did something that scared me?

When was the last time I made something that might not work?

Consider the opposite of ‘cautious.’ Try bold, or even reckless.

Feature Image Source: Vimeo